The Next Wave: Under-the-Radar Prospects and a 2028 Superstar in the Making
Kevin Flaherty and Ryan Wallace break down Missouri’s double-commitment week, local sleepers to watch, and an exclusive look at Olathe North’s rising star Jackson Parker.
In the latest episode of the Verbal Commitment podcast, hosts Kevin Flaherty and Ryan Wallace dive deep into the surging local recruiting scene.
The “commitment alarm” was firing for Missouri this week, as the Tigers secured a “double dose” of talent for the Class of 2027: East St. Louis safety Jabari Loftton and Cincinnati offensive tackle Lual Aleu. Ryan breaks down why Loftton’s “vicious” playstyle and Aleu’s basketball-bred footwork make them perfect fits for the Mizzou system.
The guys also turn their attention to local “sleepers” who are quickly waking up college scouts. Ryan highlights Andale linebacker Drayton Danzel, a “heat-seeking missile” with elite bloodlines, while Kevin spotlights Warrensburg’s Treyven Murphy, a versatile defensive standout on track to break school tackle records.
The show concludes with an exclusive look at 2028 athlete Jackson Parker from Olathe North. Standing at 6’4” with top-tier track speed, Parker is already drawing comparisons to former local legends like JJ Duffin. With a father who played for the Kansas City Chiefs and USC, Parker has the pedigree and the physical tools to become a national recruit before his junior year.
Top Three Takeaways
Missouri’s 2027 Class is Gaining Serious Steam: By landing Jabari Loftton and Lual Aleu in the same week, Eli Drinkwitz’s staff has solidified its secondary and offensive line with high-ceiling athletes from key regional pipelines.
Jackson Parker is the “Next One” in Kansas: The 2028 Olathe North standout is already a 6’4” track star with Power 4 offers. His combination of length, speed, and NFL bloodlines makes him a candidate for the top overall spot in the state for his class.
Local “Sleepers” Are Primed for a Breakout Summer: Both Drayton Danzel (Andale) and Treyven Murphy (Warrensburg) are highlighted as high-motor defenders whose senior film and upcoming camp performances will likely spark a late-cycle recruiting frenzy.